Interspecific variation in the morphology of the chelicerae, pedipalps and walking legs of cosmetid harvestmen (Opiliones, Laniatores)

Abstract

Using the scanning electron microscope, images have been captured of the microanatomy of cosmetid harvestmen (Opiliones, Laniatores). Eight species have been focused on for this research: Erginulus clavotibilais(Belize), Erginulus subserialis (Costa Rica), Vonones(USA), Holovonones compressus (Belize), Eupoecilaema magnum (Costa Rica), Paecilaema chiriquense (Costa Rica), Cynorta marginalis (Costa Rica) and Cynortula granulate(Trinidad). This research focuses on the chelicerae, pedipalps and walking legs of the various harvestmen. Variations among the different species will be documented.